Athakon Information
The Athakon house is built on two large ricefields, which for many years were fed by streaming water originating from the Phnom Kulen holy mountain. The unique shape of the house is inspired by classic Khmer architecture. Their ancient temples are famous for their perfection of proportion and their consistent structure; they are important religious monuments of Cambodia, many of which represent a micro cosmos.
The center of Athakon is of an octagonal shape and is the major meeting place of the house. It represents the mountain Meru. At the raised ground level, the lobby is surrounded by four large pounds, filled with streaming water, plants and waterlelies. At the top floor one can sense a remarkable space with a 360 degrees view all around the landscape.
Spectacular sunsets can be experienced from this high lifted lobby. Bridges and steps connect the lobbies with four central corner houses, each containing large comfortable bedrooms which offer maximum privacy.
Similar to classic temples, the entrance of the house is pointed to the east, where the sun rises. The Athakon house is of an unusual concept and respected the traditional Cambodian style of building, using natural materials like sandstone floors, large wooden pillars and terra cotta tiles. The house is surrounded by a beautiful garden with a diversity and richness one can expect in a tropical setting. Impressive stone sculptures comprise of a monumental image of king Jayavarman VII, who overlooks the large pool and poolhouse, both positioned at the west/sunset side of the property. Athakon is in addition enclosed by a large wall and gates to ensure total security and privacy.
A stay in the Athakon house is a different and wonderful experience, another approach to sense the beauty of a country which still contains many secrets.
Source: http://athakon.com/